Personality
Ortom’s aide threatens N2bn lawsuit against Senate aspirant spokesman for defamation
By Sunny Green
Prince Yemi Itodo, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has threatened to file a N2 billion suit against the spokesperson of Hon. Hassan Saleh Campaign Organization, Cletus Agada for defamation.
The threat was contained in a demand letter by his legal team, Pathfind Attorneys, dated 8th April, 2022 and addressed to Cletus Agada.
In the letter which was signed by the Senior Partner, Precious Aire, Esq, the law firm cited how Agada defamed their client in a widely published write up on Facebook Friday, 8th April, 2022.
The letter read inter alia: “In the aforesaid write up bearing the photograph of our client, you made false and unsubstantiated defamatory statements against his person in the following words:
“From Hon. Prince Onuh to Gov. Samuel Ortom and Hon. Francis Ottah Agbo, Prince Yemi Itodo is a criminal and serial blackmailer and cyber thug that has elevated blackmail to a trade and even have apprentice in his “workshop”.
“Unfortunately for him this time, Hon. Hassan Anthony Saleh whom he’s trying to open an office on his head, has no intention of inviting him for “settlement” or patronage”.
“But for the fact that he’s shameless, I would have said it will be a big shame if Yemi does not resign his membership of the PDP when Hon. Saleh is cleared for the primaries”.
The law firm submitted that Agada’s “false, libellous, malicious, and defamatory statements” have and continue to damage the hard-earned reputation of their client who had already built a sound reputation over the years as a successful investigative journalist, businessman cum politician.
It therefore, demanded a retraction of the defamatory statements published on Facebook, in addition to an unreserved written apology to their client through the law firm’s office and publication of same in three National Newspapers to wit; The Nation, Leadership and Blueprint.
It added that failure of the defamer to comply with the demands within 72 hours will leave them with no choice than to seek legal redress in court “where we shall be claiming damages in the sum of N2,000,000,000 (Two Billion Naira) on behalf of our client”.
Meanwhile, Comrade Yemi Itodo has opened up on why he threatened to go legal on the defamatory comments made against him by Cletus Agada of the Hassan Anthony Saleh Campaign Organization.
Itodo in a statement in Abuja Saturday, said the defamer elated to malign his person and ascribed “unprintable names” to him.
“In the said publication made via the instrumentality of social media, which is regarded as agent of multimedia as captioned in section 22 of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended; the Media Aide and official spokesman of Hon. Saleh, an aspirant for Senate of Benue South under the PDP, labeled me as a “criminal”, “serial blackmailer” and “cyber thug”, he stated.
He pointed out that “there was no prior acrimony between me and the said Media Aide to Hon. Hassan Saleh, saved for the trending discourse on the social space, wherefore, his Principal posted his resignation letter as an SLA to the Speaker of House of Representatives. The former 2 terms Reps Member’s post got public attention and the youth and PDP members in Benue South started asking if it was right for him to have held unto an appointment with an APC government, only for him to have resigned one month to PDP primaries, to seek a senatorial ticket of the umbrella party.
“Permit me to also place emphasis on the fact that, I neither joined in the commentary, nor made any post on my wall in support or against the topic. To my greatest surprise, the boy went and posted one long epistle on Thursday morning, tagging and trying to rubbish the appointment given to me by His Excellency, Governor Samuel Ortom. I went to his wall and pleaded that he untag me and also leave Governor out of the discourse. He never listened.”
Itodo added: “Aside the publication, I have also received plenty threats from family members and associates of the aspirant. One Saleh Ododo’s message of threat which he made openly, and other recorded calls are being scrutinized by the agents of State, as we speak.”
Personality
Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN: A Philanthropic Trailblazer in Kogi State
Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN has established himself as an unwavering advocate for community development, philanthropy, and social empowerment in Kogi State.
His tireless efforts to address societal challenges and improve the lives of vulnerable groups have left an indelible mark on his community and beyond.
Chief Onoja has consistently provided food items and clothing to widows and elderly citizens, ensuring that they are not left behind amid economic challenges.
This yearly initiative served as a lifeline for many who struggle to meet their basic needs.
Through a regular financial support scheme, he provided stipends to vulnerable individuals, especially the elderly, helping them afford essential needs such as healthcare and food.
Chief Onoja’s dedication to improving lives extends to building homes for senior citizens, offering them security and dignity in their later years.
Chief Onoja has taken a proactive approach to community infrastructure, personally funding the grading and maintenance of a vital 23.5-kilometer road connecting Ogugu, Emenega, and other communities.
This road has improved transportation, trade, and access to education and healthcare, boosting economic activity in the area.
In 2023, Chief Onoja launched a ₦100 million scholarship fund to support students at all educational levels, including those pursuing professional programs like law.
This initiative has opened doors for many deserving students to achieve their dreams without financial constraints.
He has also invested in education by constructing classroom blocks at Community Secondary School in Emomoka, Ogugu, ensuring students learn in a conducive environment.
Chief Onoja’s sponsorship of the Unyi Ogugu football tournament provided a platform for youth engagement, promoting teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition while fostering unity among communities.
Every year, Chief Onoja organized free medical outreach programs to address the health needs of Kogi residents, ensuring access to basic healthcare for those who may not afford it otherwise.
Following security challenges in his community in 2023, he funded the establishment of a Civil Defence Corps outpost equipped with modern facilities and vehicles.
This initiative has restored peace and security in the area, allowing residents to live without fear.
Chief Onoja has funded the construction and renovation of religious institutions, including the largest Catholic sanctuary in North Central Nigeria at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Ogugu. His contributions foster spiritual growth and provide modern facilities for worship.
Chief Onoja also assisted young couples by providing financial support for wedding attire, ensuring they begin their marital journey with less financial burden.
Chief Ogwu James Onoja SAN has demonstrated that leadership is not defined by titles but by impactful service to humanity. His initiatives reflect a deep sense of responsibility, empathy, and commitment to the betterment of society.
In a world often driven by personal ambition, Chief Onoja’s decision to prioritize service over political aspirations sets him apart as a leader of rare integrity. His legacy is one of hope, empowerment, and transformation, inspiring others to give back to their communities selflessly.
Personality
Senator Echocho applauds Governor Ododo’s Transformative Leadership, at birthday anniverssary
Senator representing Kogi East Senatorial District, Isah Jibrin Echocho has joined the people of Kogi State in celebrating the birthday of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo, commending his transformative leadership and people-centered governance.
In a heartfelt tribute, Senator Echocho described Governor Ododo as a visionary leader whose policies have laid the foundation for inclusive growth, infrastructure development, and social progress across the state.
Echocho, in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mikail Ibrahim, highlighted the governor’s pragmatic approach to governance, emphasizing his strides in job creation, poverty alleviation, and community empowerment programs as key drivers of positive change.
The senator praised Governor Ododo’s humility and dedication, describing him as a unifier and reformer whose governance style continues to inspire confidence among the people.
He expressed optimism that the governor’s administration would sustain its momentum to build a legacy of prosperity and stability.
Echocho stated:
“As we celebrate this special day, we acknowledge Governor Ododo’s steadfast commitment to making Kogi State a model of progress and unity. His leadership has become a beacon of hope, fostering development and improving the welfare of citizens.”
He further pledged support for the governor’s administration, affirming his readiness to collaborate in driving initiatives that would reduce inequality, boost economic opportunities, and empower communities.
“As partners in governance, we remain committed to complementing the governor’s efforts in implementing policies that will uplift the people and enhance the state’s development trajectory,” Echocho added.
The senator also used the opportunity to urge residents of Kogi State to remain supportive and united, emphasizing that sustainable progress requires collective responsibility and partnerships between leaders and citizens.
While extending prayers for good health, longevity, and wisdom for the governor, Senator Echocho reaffirmed his belief in Governor Ododo’s ability to lead Kogi State into a new era of prosperity and growth.
“Happy Birthday, Your Excellency. May your leadership continue to inspire hope, drive development, and unite our people toward greater achievements,” he concluded.
Personality
Peter Obi Mourns Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, describes him as a “True Democrat”
Former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections in Nigeria, Peter Obi has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
Obi described him as a “true democrat” and a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic history.
In a heartfelt statement, while writing on his X-Handle, Obi described Nwosu as an outstanding academic and a courageous defender of democratic principles, particularly during his tenure as NEC Chairman from 1989 to 1993.
Obi emphasized Prof. Nwosu’s pivotal role in organizing and upholding the 1993 presidential elections, a process widely regarded as one of the fairest in Nigeria’s history.
“For his role in that election, Prof. Nwosu’s name will remain indelible in the history of Nigerian democracy,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor however lamented the state of Nigeria’s current electoral process, noting that despite the resources and technology now available, the integrity and commitment to democracy exhibited by Nwosu under less favorable conditions have not been replicated.
Obi praised Nwosu for his adherence to truth and electoral transparency, contrasting it with the current challenges in Nigeria’s democratic system.
“Unlike today, when professors are sometimes procured to aid electoral malpractice, Prof. Nwosu applied the principles he taught as an erudite professor of Political Science, conducting an election that remains a benchmark for integrity,” Obi said.
Obi called for more leaders like Nwosu, who he described as willing to risk their lives for the sake of democracy.
He also prayed for God’s forgiveness for Nwosu’s shortcomings and for strength for his family and all those mourning him.
“May God Almighty grant Nigeria the likes of Professor Humphrey Nwosu in future elections,” Obi concluded, reaffirming his belief that a new and better Nigeria is possible.
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